Why Is It Called the Obedient Plant?

Obedient Plant: Why Is It Called That?

The obedient plant (Physostegia virginiana) is a beautiful, flowering perennial that is native to North America. It is known for its long, slender stems and spikes of pink, purple, or white flowers. But what many people don’t know is that the obedient plant got its name because of its unique ability to “obey” the touch of a human hand.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the obedient plant and explore the reasons why it is called that. We will also discuss its history, its uses, and its care requirements. So if you are curious about this fascinating plant, read on!

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Why Is It Called Obedient Plant? The plant’s leaves fold inward when touched, giving it the appearance of being obedient. Mimosa pudica
Scientific Name Family: Fabaceae Genus: Mimosa
Common Names Touch-Me-Not, Sensitive Plant, Shame Plant Distribution: Native to tropical and subtropical America

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The obedient plant (Tradescantia fluminensis) is a popular houseplant that is known for its attractive foliage and its ability to tolerate neglect. It is also known for its unique name, which is derived from the fact that the plant’s leaves will curl up when touched, and then uncurl when released.

In this article, we will explore the history, botany, and care of the obedient plant. We will also discuss some of the common myths and misconceptions about this plant.

History of the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant is native to South America, where it is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It was first introduced to Europe in the 1600s by John Tradescant, an English botanist. Tradescant named the plant “obedient plant” because of its ability to curl up when touched.

The obedient plant quickly became a popular houseplant in Europe, and it was soon introduced to other parts of the world. Today, the obedient plant is a popular houseplant in many countries, including the United States.

Botany of the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Commelinaceae. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach a height of 2 feet. The leaves are oval-shaped and green, and they are arranged in a spiral pattern on the stems.

The flowers of the obedient plant are small and white, and they are produced in clusters. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do add a touch of beauty to the plant.

Care of the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant is a very easy-care plant that is ideal for beginners. It can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including neglect. However, the plant will do best if it is provided with the following conditions:

  • Light: The obedient plant prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much sun can damage the leaves.
  • Water: The obedient plant needs to be watered regularly, but it should not be allowed to sit in water. The best way to water the plant is to allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
  • Temperature: The obedient plant prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but it will not do well if the temperature drops below that.
  • Humidity: The obedient plant prefers high humidity. If the humidity in your home is low, you can mist the plant regularly or place it on a pebble tray filled with water.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

There are a few common myths and misconceptions about the obedient plant. Here are some of the most common:

  • The obedient plant is poisonous. This is not true. The obedient plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
  • The obedient plant will die if you touch it. This is also not true. The obedient plant’s leaves will curl up when touched, but they will uncurl again when released.
  • The obedient plant is a good air purifier. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that the obedient plant is a good air purifier.

The obedient plant is a beautiful and easy-care plant that is ideal for beginners. It is a great choice for people who want a plant that is low-maintenance and that can tolerate neglect. If you are looking for a new plant to add to your home, the obedient plant is a great option.

Why Is It Called Obedient Plant?

The obedient plant (Tradescantia zebrina) is a popular houseplant that is known for its unique, variegated leaves. The leaves are green with purple stripes, and they are often curled or twisted. The plant is also known for its ability to “obey” the touch of a human hand. If you gently stroke the leaves, they will curl up and then slowly unfurl. This behavior is what gave the plant its name.

There are a few different theories about why the obedient plant is called “obedient.” One theory is that the plant was named after the Biblical story of Adam and Eve. In the story, Eve is tempted by the serpent to eat from the Tree of Knowledge. When she does, she disobeys God’s command and is cast out of the Garden of Eden. The obedient plant is said to have been named after Eve because it is so easy to manipulate.

Another theory is that the plant was named after the Roman goddess of obedience, Obedience. Obedience was the daughter of Jupiter and Juno, and she was known for her loyalty and devotion. The obedient plant is said to have been named after her because it is so easy to train and control.

Whatever the reason for its name, the obedient plant is a beautiful and unique addition to any home. It is easy to care for and it is sure to bring a smile to your face.

History of the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant is native to Central America and Mexico. It was first introduced to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers. The plant quickly became popular as an ornamental plant, and it was soon introduced to other parts of the world.

The obedient plant is now a popular houseplant in many parts of the world. It is easy to care for and it is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. The plant is also relatively pest-free, making it a good choice for people who are new to gardening.

Scientific Name of the Obedient Plant

The scientific name of the obedient plant is Tradescantia zebrina. The genus name, Tradescantia, is named after John Tradescant, an English gardener and explorer who collected plants from all over the world. The species name, zebrina, is derived from the Latin word for zebra, which refers to the plant’s striped leaves.

Varieties of the Obedient Plant

There are many different varieties of the obedient plant, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

  • Tradescantia zebrina ‘Quadricolor’: This variety has leaves that are green, purple, and white.
  • Tradescantia zebrina ‘Purpurea’: This variety has leaves that are dark purple with a silver sheen.
  • Tradescantia zebrina ‘Tricolor’: This variety has leaves that are green, white, and pink.

Care Instructions for the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant is a relatively easy plant to care for. It does best in bright, indirect sunlight. The plant can tolerate some direct sunlight, but it is important to avoid exposing it to too much sun, as this can damage the leaves.

The obedient plant prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. The plant should be watered regularly, but the soil should never be allowed to become soggy.

The obedient plant is a slow-growing plant. It does not need to be repotted often. The plant should only be repotted when it outgrows its current pot.

The obedient plant is not a heavy feeder. It only needs to be fertilized once a month during the growing season.

The obedient plant is not a pest-prone plant. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If the plant is infested with pests, it can be treated with a neem oil or insecticidal soap solution.

Propagation of the Obedient Plant

The obedient plant can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings.

  • Seeds can be sown in spring or summer. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds will germinate in about 2 weeks.
  • Division can be done in spring or fall. The plant can be divided by carefully separating the roots. Each division should have at least 2-3 stems.
  • Cuttings can be taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining potting

    Why is it called Obedient Plant?

The Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana) is named for its pliable stems, which can be easily bent and trained into different shapes. The plant was first introduced to Europe in the early 17th century, and its unique name quickly caught on.

What are the different types of Obedient Plant?

There are two main types of Obedient Plant: the upright variety and the spreading variety. The upright variety grows to a height of 2-3 feet, while the spreading variety grows to a width of 3-4 feet. Both varieties have showy spikes of pink, purple, or white flowers.

How do you care for Obedient Plant?

Obedient Plant is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much fertilizer. To keep the plant looking its best, deadhead the flowers regularly.

How do you propagate Obedient Plant?

Obedient Plant can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in early spring in a well-drained soil. To propagate by division, divide the plant in early spring or fall. To propagate by cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings in early summer and root them in a mixture of peat moss and sand.

What are the benefits of Obedient Plant?

Obedient Plant is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscape settings. The plant is also deer-resistant and attracts butterflies.

Is Obedient Plant poisonous?

Obedient Plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.

the obedient plant is a unique and fascinating plant that is sure to turn heads wherever it is grown. It is easy to care for and propagate, and it can add a touch of beauty to any garden. If you are looking for a new plant to add to your collection, the obedient plant is a great option.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.